News
September 02, 2025
Asean, Brics, GCC, SCO – and what’s left ? — Phar Kim Beng
SEPTEMBER 2 — When Timor-Leste formally joins the Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean) at the October 2...
Timor-Leste is set to officially become a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on October 2nd, marking a significant expansion of the regional bloc. This move raises important questions about the evolving landscape of international alliances and what this means for other global partnerships like BRICS, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
The inclusion of Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, into ASEAN represents a milestone for the young nation, which gained independence in 2002. This membership offers Timor-Leste opportunities for economic growth, enhanced regional security cooperation, and a stronger voice on the international stage. For ASEAN, the addition strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia and demonstrates the bloc's commitment to inclusivity.
However, the expansion also prompts reflection on the shifting dynamics of global power and the increasing importance of regional organizations. With groups like BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) gaining traction as an alternative to Western-dominated institutions, and the GCC playing a pivotal role in Middle Eastern affairs, the international order is becoming increasingly multi-polar. The SCO, focused on security and economic cooperation in Eurasia, further contributes to this complex web of alliances.
The question then becomes: what is the future for these various organizations? Will they complement each other, or will they become rivals vying for influence? The answer likely lies in the specific goals and priorities of each group. ASEAN, for example, is primarily focused on regional integration and economic development within Southeast Asia. BRICS, on the other hand, seeks to reshape the global financial architecture and promote a more equitable distribution of power.
The evolving landscape necessitates a nuanced understanding of each organization’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as their potential for collaboration and competition. With Timor-Leste joining ASEAN, the world is reminded of the enduring importance of regional partnerships in navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The success of these alliances, and their ability to address shared challenges, will ultimately determine the future of global governance.
The inclusion of Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, into ASEAN represents a milestone for the young nation, which gained independence in 2002. This membership offers Timor-Leste opportunities for economic growth, enhanced regional security cooperation, and a stronger voice on the international stage. For ASEAN, the addition strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia and demonstrates the bloc's commitment to inclusivity.
However, the expansion also prompts reflection on the shifting dynamics of global power and the increasing importance of regional organizations. With groups like BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) gaining traction as an alternative to Western-dominated institutions, and the GCC playing a pivotal role in Middle Eastern affairs, the international order is becoming increasingly multi-polar. The SCO, focused on security and economic cooperation in Eurasia, further contributes to this complex web of alliances.
The question then becomes: what is the future for these various organizations? Will they complement each other, or will they become rivals vying for influence? The answer likely lies in the specific goals and priorities of each group. ASEAN, for example, is primarily focused on regional integration and economic development within Southeast Asia. BRICS, on the other hand, seeks to reshape the global financial architecture and promote a more equitable distribution of power.
The evolving landscape necessitates a nuanced understanding of each organization’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as their potential for collaboration and competition. With Timor-Leste joining ASEAN, the world is reminded of the enduring importance of regional partnerships in navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The success of these alliances, and their ability to address shared challenges, will ultimately determine the future of global governance.
Category:
Politics